Table 1.

Predisposing factors for infection in the transplant host

Interruption of bronchial circulation

Disruption of the integrity of the epithelium

Abnormal ciliary function

Decreased sputum production

Denervation of the allograft

Diminished cough reflex

Bronchial hyperresponsiveness

Interruption of lymphatic drainage

Anastomosis site complications

Ischaemia, necrosis or dehiscence promoting colonization

Stenosis with impairment of secretion clearance

Previous colonizing pathogens

Contralateral lung (i.e. single lung transplant recipient)

Donor‐harboured pathogens

Recipient‐harboured pathogens

Immunosuppression

T‐lymphocyte dysfunction (e.g. calcineurin inhibitors)

B‐lymphocyte dysfunction (e.g. mycophenolate mofetil)

Macrophage and cytokine dysregulation (e.g. corticosteroids)